ANTI-WAR activists staged a "passionate but peaceful" demonstration outside Colchester Town Hall as they called for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. 

Protestors wielding signs and flags took to the city centre at about 5pm on Wednesday to make their feelings on the Gaza war known ahead of a Colchester Council cabinet meeting.

In a display of solidarity with all those impacted on both sides of the fighting, demonstrators participated in chants as they called for a ceasefire as spectators watched on.

One of the protesters in attendance was Imran Hussainy, who says he is part of the Muslim community in Colchester.

“We have people who have come here in winter wearing clothes but the same people there don’t have the choice," he said.

Gazette: Passionate - Protestors make their voices heard in Colchester as they call for an end to the Gaza conflictPassionate - Protestors make their voices heard in Colchester as they call for an end to the Gaza conflict (Image: Public)
“We’re here having our lunch, dinner, everything but people there don’t even know if they’re going to be alive the next day.

“We are here standing in solidarity. What we’re looking for is to have a ceasefire right away so people can have a better life.

“I don’t think they’ll have a life like we have, but hopefully a better life than what they’ve got.”

During the protests, Colchester Council leader David King, as well as councillor Mark Cory, took time to speak with those who had gathered outside the town hall.

Mr Cory said: “David and I went to speak with the people outside.

"We spoke amicably with them, people who clearly are very passionate about the cause of Gaza and Palestine, with family and relations there. 

“We share their concerns about rising numbers and devastating circumstances. I support the UN and their calls for a ceasefire.

Gazette: Peaceful - Activists used flags and placards to get their messages acrossPeaceful - Activists used flags and placards to get their messages across (Image: Public)
“We are very conscious of rising rates of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia - we must try to stop those divisions in our community and see where we can find a common ground."

"That should be to find a ceasefire."

Echoing the concerns of the protestors, Mr Cory, who is a history teacher, said he remains worried for the innocent civilians caught-up in the conflict.  

He added: "I understand what’s gone on and understand. I worry about the mounting casualties, civilian and children in Gaza.

“It was a passionate but peaceful protest which we welcome and respect.”